09-02-2011, 03:10 PM
[cool][#0000ff]I unload my minnows from my "catch bucket" into a dry cooler. Then I layer them with sheets of refreezable packages...with one layer on the bottom and then a layer on top. They stiffen up pretty fast. In fact, some are frozen when I get them home for sorting and packaging.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Some guys layer them in rock salt...both to croak them and to begin dehydrating them so they stay firmer.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]No need to do individual head-bops. They are almost as wimpy as trout and die quickly. At least the chub minnows do. Carp are tougher.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]I do know of guys who have been checked by DWR and there were minnows still flopping in their coolers. Discretionary call by the officer but they can issue a citation. Much worse if you have a protected species (trout, bluegill, crappie, white bass, perch, etc. in your minnow haul.)[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]There are some lakes, like Scofield and Electric Lake where anglers catch minnows and fish with them on the spot. DWR officers will nail you if the minnow on the end of your line shows any signs of life. And they check your minnow bucket too. If there is water...and live minnows in it...you are busted. Definitely best to kill the minnows as soon as you catch them...somehow. Cheaper if you get checked.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]Some guys layer them in rock salt...both to croak them and to begin dehydrating them so they stay firmer.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]No need to do individual head-bops. They are almost as wimpy as trout and die quickly. At least the chub minnows do. Carp are tougher.[/#0000ff]
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[#0000ff]I do know of guys who have been checked by DWR and there were minnows still flopping in their coolers. Discretionary call by the officer but they can issue a citation. Much worse if you have a protected species (trout, bluegill, crappie, white bass, perch, etc. in your minnow haul.)[/#0000ff]
[#0000ff][/#0000ff]
[#0000ff]There are some lakes, like Scofield and Electric Lake where anglers catch minnows and fish with them on the spot. DWR officers will nail you if the minnow on the end of your line shows any signs of life. And they check your minnow bucket too. If there is water...and live minnows in it...you are busted. Definitely best to kill the minnows as soon as you catch them...somehow. Cheaper if you get checked.[/#0000ff]
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